Abao
Abao | |
|---|---|
| Born | Zhang Shaochun February 27, 1969 Near Datong, Shanxi, China |
| Occupation | Folk vocalist |
| Years active | 1986–present |
| Known for | Winning CCTV talent show Xingguang Dadao in 2005; folk singing in Shanxi and Shaanxi traditions |
Zhang Shaochun (, born on 27 February 1969), widely recognized by his stage name Abao (), is a prominent Chinese folk vocalist originating from Shanxi. His rise to fame came after winning the CCTV talent show Xingguang Dadao ('Star Road') in 2005, establishing him as a leading figure among folk singers from northwest China.
Early life
Born near Datong in Shanxi on 27 February 1969, Abao was inspired by a local folk artist and began singing at the age of four without any formal education in music. In addition to Shanxi's traditional songs, he expanded his knowledge by studying folk tunes from Shaanbei in adjacent Shaanxi. At twelve, he entered Datong Arts School and completed his studies there in 1986.
Career
At seventeen, Abao commenced performing at a music bar in Datong and subsequently joined a traveling performance group that entertained at weddings and rural festivities across the country. His musical selections spanned pop, rock, and folk traditions.
In 2004, during a performance in Beijing, a television producer discovered him, leading to his earning the bronze award in CCTV’s folk-singing contest Xibu Mingge Diansi Dasai (西部民歌电视大赛). Following this achievement, he released his debut album titled Abao. The following year, he secured victory in the inaugural season of Xingguang Dadao, captivating audiences with "The Wild Lilies Bloom a Brilliant Red" (山丹丹开花红艳艳) and outperforming competitors such as Phoenix Legend.
After winning, Abao became a frequent television guest, including an appearance on the 2006 CCTV New Year's Gala, and launched his second album that same year. He has also contributed as a judge on several TV programs, including Xingguang Dadao. In 2013, he took part in the Chinese edition of the reality show Splash!.
Performance style
Abao is known for his expansive vocal range and unique high-pitched tone, skillfully merging folk elements from Shanxi, Mongolia, and especially the Xintianyou tradition native to Shaanxi. His stage attire typically reflects a Shaanxi peasant’s outfit: a sheepskin vest, dark trousers, and a white towel tied around his head.
Although originating from Shanxi rather than northern Shaanxi itself, Abao became renowned for performing Shaanxi's Xintianyou folk songs, earning him the nickname "Xintianyou Song King" (信天游歌王). While some specialists have debated the authenticity of his vocal techniques, his widespread appeal has notably shaped contemporary interpretations of these folk melodies—a development scholars have labeled the "Abao phenomenon."
Discography
- Abao《阿宝》(2005)
- Xiang qinqin xiang zai xinyan yanshang《想亲亲想在心眼眼上》(2006)
- Lei dandan《泪蛋蛋》(2012)
- Nongye zhongjinshu 《农业重金属》(2014)
Songs
- 为你跑成罗圈腿